Applying for a UK visa can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re waiting for updates after submitting your biometrics and application. Many people worry when they don’t get a confirmation email right away from UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI). The truth is, this is completely normal. The process has several steps, each with its own timeline and actions for both the applicant and the authorities. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to help you understand what happens after you submit your application and biometrics, what you need to do at each stage, and what you can expect from UKVI and its partners.
Step 1: Completing Your Application and Biometrics

The journey begins when you fill out your visa application online and pay the required fee. After this, you’ll be asked to provide your biometrics—your fingerprints and a photo. This is a key part of the process because UKVI uses your biometrics to confirm your identity and start processing your application.
- If you’re using the UK Immigration: ID Check app, you’ll verify your identity and upload your documents through the app.
- If not, you’ll need to book an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Service (UKVCAS) centre or another approved biometric collection centre.
What to do:
– Make sure you attend your biometric appointment on time.
– Keep the receipt and reference number you receive at your appointment. You’ll need this to track your application later.
What to expect:
– You will not receive an immediate confirmation email from UK Visas & Immigration after submitting your biometrics and application. This is standard. UKVI only starts processing your application after your biometrics are collected and verified.
Step 2: Application Submission and Start of Processing
Once your biometrics are submitted, your application officially enters the UKVI system. The processing time starts from this point, not from when you first filled out your application online.
What to do:
– Double-check that you’ve submitted all required documents. Missing documents can delay your application.
– If you used a visa application centre like VFS Global or TLScontact, you can use their online tracking tools to check your application status. You’ll need your reference number from your biometric receipt.
What to expect:
– UKVI will not send you a confirmation email right after biometrics. Instead, you’ll receive a decision letter or email once a decision has been made.
– Processing times vary by visa type and service:
– Non-settlement visas: Most are decided within 3 weeks (90%), 98% within 6 weeks, and all within 12 weeks.
– Settlement visas: These can take up to 12 weeks or longer.
– Premium services: If you paid for Priority or Super Priority, you’ll get a decision much faster—within 5 working days or even the next working day.
Step 3: Tracking Your Application Status
While you wait, you might want to check the status of your application. There are several ways to do this:
- VFS Global or TLScontact:
- If you applied through one of these visa application centres, visit their website and use your reference number to track your application.
- VFS Global Visa Application Tracking
- UKVI Online Enquiry Service:
- You can pay £2.74 to submit an online enquiry about your visa status on the UKVI website. This service gives you an initial email reply and follow-ups within about 5 working days.
- UKVI General Enquiry (paid service)
- Telephone Contact:
- Call the UKVI helpline at +44 (0)300 790 6268 (option 1), Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. UK time.
- SMS Notifications:
- If you gave your mobile number during your application, you may receive SMS updates about your visa status.
What to do:
– Use the tracking tools and keep your reference number handy.
– Only contact UKVI directly if your application is taking longer than the published processing times or if you have urgent reasons.
What to expect:
– Most updates will come through the tracking portals or by email/SMS if you registered for notifications.
– UKVI encourages applicants to use online tracking and enquiry services before calling or making formal complaints.
Step 4: Waiting for a Decision
This is often the hardest part—waiting. It’s important to know what is normal and when you should take action.
What to do:
– Be patient and check the official processing times for your visa type. You can find these on the UK government’s visa processing times page.
– If you paid for Priority or Super Priority service and haven’t received a decision within the promised time, contact the visa application centre or UKVI right away.
What to expect:
– No confirmation email after biometrics: This is normal. You’ll only get a decision notification once UKVI has finished processing your application.
– If processing times are exceeded: For standard visas, if you haven’t heard anything after 6 weeks (for most non-settlement visas), you can contact UKVI using the online enquiry service or helpline.
– Urgent cases: If you have a genuine emergency (like work, study, or family reasons), UKVI has escalation procedures. You’ll need to provide evidence, and it may take 2-3 weeks for review.
Step 5: Receiving Your Decision
When UKVI finishes processing your application, you’ll receive a decision letter or email. This will tell you if your visa has been approved or refused.
What to do:
– Follow the instructions in your decision letter. If your visa is approved, you may need to collect your passport or biometric residence permit.
– If your visa is refused, the letter will explain why and tell you if you can appeal or reapply.
What to expect:
– For most people, the first official communication from UKVI after biometrics is the decision notification.
– If you used a premium service, expect a faster response, usually by email or letter soon after the decision is made.
Recent Developments and Policy Context (2024-2025)
UKVI’s communication process has not changed much in 2025. Decision notifications still come after full processing, not right after biometrics. Premium services are now fully integrated into the online system, and biometric appointments are required for Super Priority service. UKVI continues to recommend using online tracking and enquiry services before calling or escalating issues.
Practical Tips and Common Questions
- Is it normal not to get a confirmation email after biometrics?
Yes, this is completely normal. UKVI only sends a decision notification after processing is complete. - How can I check if my application was received?
Use your reference number to track your application on the VFS Global or TLScontact website, or use the UKVI paid enquiry service. -
What if I need my visa urgently?
Consider using Priority or Super Priority services if available. If you already applied and have an emergency, contact UKVI with evidence of your urgent need.
Service | Cost |
---|---|
UKVI Online Enquiry Service | £2.74 |
Priority Service | additional fee required |
Super Priority Service | additional fee required |
-
What documents should I keep?
Always keep your biometric appointment receipt, reference number, and copies of all submitted documents. -
Who should I contact for updates?
Start with the online tracking tools. Only contact UKVI directly if your application is delayed beyond the published times or if you have urgent circumstances.
Official Resources and Contact Information
- UKVI General Enquiry (paid service): https://ukvi.mysecurepay.co.uk/Home
- UKVI Visa Status Helpline: +44 (0)300 790 6268 (Mon-Fri, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.)
- VFS Global Visa Application Tracking: https://www.vfsglobal.com/en/individuals/index.html
- TLScontact Support: Use the ‘Contact us’ page on the TLScontact website
- Visa Processing Times & Guidance: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-inside-the-uk
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the lack of an immediate confirmation email after biometrics and application submission is a standard part of the UK Visas & Immigration process. Applicants are encouraged to use official tracking services and only contact UKVI if processing times are exceeded or urgent issues arise. Premium services offer faster decisions and more immediate communication but require extra fees and a biometric appointment.
By following these steps and using the official resources, you can stay informed and reduce stress during your visa application journey. Remember, patience and careful tracking are key. If you keep your documents safe and use the right channels for updates, you’ll be well-prepared for each stage of the process.
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